Automation and Control Systems Engineer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Automation and Control Systems Engineer to join Mossel Bay operations. The role focuses on the design, implementation, and optimization of automated processes and control systems within our client's advanced manufacturing facilities.

You will work on PLC programming, HMI development, SCADA, and industrial networking, collaborating with production and maintenance to improve efficiency, quality, and safety.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics.
• Minimum 5 years in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proven PLC programming experience (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• HMI/SCADA software experience (WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking.
• Robotics integration a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, test, and commission PLC systems for industrial applications.
• Develop and configure HMI and SCADA systems.
• Maintain industrial communication networks (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus).
• Troubleshoot automation hardware, software and control logic.
• Optimize processes to improve efficiency and product quality.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate new automation technologies.
• Develop and maintain documentation for control systems.
• Ensure safety and quality compliance.
• Train operators and maintenance personnel on automation systems.
• Participate in evaluating new automation hardware and software.

Skills

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Safety mindset

Education

Bachelors in Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics degree

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

WinCC

FactoryTalk View

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative Automation and Control Systems Engineer to join their established team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This critical role will focus on the design, implementation, and optimization of automated processes and control systems within our client's advanced manufacturing facilities. You will be instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency, improving product quality, and ensuring the safety and reliability of automated equipment. This is a hands‑on, on‑site position requiring a deep understanding of PLC programming, HMI development, SCADA systems, and industrial networking. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem‑solver with a passion for automation technology and a proven ability to work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams, including production, maintenance, and engineering departments. Your expertise will directly contribute to maintaining our client's competitive edge through state‑of‑the‑art automation solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, test, and commission PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley) for various industrial applications.
• Develop and configure Human‑Machine Interface (HMI) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.
• Implement and maintain industrial communication networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus).
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to automation hardware, software, and control logic.
• Optimize existing automated processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Collaborate with the engineering team to integrate new automation technologies and equipment.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including control system architecture, logic diagrams, and user manuals.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and industry standards for automated systems.
• Conduct training sessions for operators and maintenance personnel on new and existing automation systems.
• Participate in the evaluation and selection of new automation hardware and software solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proven proficiency in PLC programming (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and HMI/SCADA software (e.g., WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols and networking.
• Experience with robotic systems integration is a plus.
• Knowledge of servo systems and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills with a methodical approach.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills to effectively collaborate with diverse teams.
• Commitment to safety and quality in all aspects of work.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for professional growth through specialized training in leading automation technologies are provided. You will have the chance to work on challenging and rewarding projects in a technologically advanced environment. Our client promotes a strong safety culture and encourages innovation. Generous annual leave and other benefits are part of the compensation. Career advancement opportunities within the automation and engineering departments are available. This role provides the opportunity to be at the forefront of industrial automation advancements.